André Gagnon

André Gagnon was a Canadian pianist, composer, conductor, arranger, and actor from Quebec, known for blending classical and popular styles.

André Gagnon was a Canadian pianist, composer, conductor, arranger, and actor from Quebec, known for blending classical and popular styles. He became widely known for works such as *Neiges* and composed for recordings, television, film, and opera. He died in Montreal in 2020 at age 84 after a long battle with Lewy body dementia.

Early life and education

André Gagnon was born on 2 August 1936 in Saint-Pacôme-de-Kamouraska, Quebec. He began composing at the age of six. He studied music at the Montreal Conservatory and in Paris.

Career

Gagnon began his professional career in the late 1950s, working as an accompanist, arranger, and solo pianist-composer. He gained recognition for his instrumental albums and for music written for television, film, and theatre. His best-known work is *Neiges*, and he also composed the opera *Nelligan*.

Style and influence

Gagnon's music was noted for bridging classical and popular styles, combining elements of classical, pop, and instrumental music. His work helped raise the profile of instrumental music in Quebec and influenced later Canadian instrumental artists.

Awards and recognition

Over his career, Gagnon received multiple Canadian music awards, including Juno Awards and Félix Awards. He was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada and an Officer of the National Order of Quebec.